Braces are a traditional orthodontic method that uses a system of archwires and brackets fixed on the tooth surface to effectively correct conditions such as buck teeth, underbite, gaps, and crooked teeth, etc. Clear braces are the most modern and advanced method today, using clear aligners to help move teeth to the correct position on the jaw. Each solution has its own advantages and disadvantages, so clear braces or braces depend on the oral condition and needs of each person.
1. What are braces?
Braces are a traditional orthodontic method that has been around for a long time, using a system of archwires and brackets to create a tightening force to help teeth move to the desired position on the jaw, effectively correcting misaligned bites. Braces have some advantages and disadvantages as follows:
1.1. Advantages of braces
1.1.1. High orthodontic efficiency
Because the braces are fixed to the tooth surface throughout the treatment process, it will ensure that the tightening force is created continuously and stably, bringing high orthodontic efficiency in a short time.
1.1.2. Low cost
The cost of braces is quite low, ranging from 30 million or more depending on the severity of the misalignment of the teeth. In addition, the cost of braces also depends on factors such as: oral health status, dental address, etc.
1.1.3. Short braces time
Braces with traditional braces can help shorten orthodontic time by 3-6 months compared to other methods.
1.2. Disadvantages of braces
1.2.1. May cause irritation
In case of choosing ceramic braces, customers can be completely assured that this material will not cause any danger to oral health. However, if choosing metal braces, patients may experience irritation if they have a sensitive constitution or are allergic to metal.
1.2.2. Not guaranteed aesthetics
Because the archwire and braces are attached to the outer surface of the teeth, others can easily recognize that the customer is undergoing braces treatment. That makes many people become self-conscious and hesitant in daily communication activities, sometimes missing out on great opportunities in their career and life.
1.2.3. Feeling uncomfortable
Braces will make customers feel uncomfortable in the beginning. During chewing or communicating, due to unfamiliarity, the braces may get tangled, causing damage to the cheeks, tongue, etc. However, this situation will be overcome when customers use orthodontic wax and chew gently.
2. What are clear braces?
Clear braces are a method that applies the most advanced and modern orthodontic technology today. Instead of using traditional archwires and braces, the orthodontic device of this method is a tray made of high-quality transparent plastic.
Clear braces are designed to be personalized to fit each person’s teeth with flexible removal. This brace will create a sufficient and continuous force to help teeth move to the correct position, effectively correcting buck teeth, underbite, misalignment, etc.
During the treatment process, the number of braces that need to be worn is from 20-40 depending on the condition of the teeth that need braces and the doctor recommends wearing the tray at least 20 hours a day to achieve the highest orthodontic efficiency. Each tray is worn for about 2 weeks to help the teeth move 0.25mm, and then the customer will wear a new tray to continue straightening the teeth.
Some advantages and disadvantages of clear braces can be listed as follows:
2.1. Advantages of clear braces
2.1.1. High aesthetics
Thanks to being made from transparent plastic with a design that hugs the teeth and fits snugly against the gums, the clear braces tray becomes almost invisible when worn. This helps to ensure maximum aesthetics throughout the braces process, helping customers always smile confidently.
2.1.2. Safe, benign
The materials used to make the clear plastic tray are all imported directly from abroad and have been tested before being put into use. This is a completely safe, benign material and does not cause any irritation when present in the oral environment.
2.1.3. Easy oral hygiene
Because the braces can be flexibly removed, oral hygiene for patients is no longer a big problem. Customers only need to brush their teeth at least 3 times a day to clean the tooth surface, especially after each meal to prevent bacteria from developing and attacking oral health.
Not only that, cleaning the clear braces tray also becomes much easier. Customers only need to clean the braces tray with a toothbrush and regular toothpaste. Note that you should never soak the clear braces tray in hot water because the plastic material can be deformed.
2.2. Disadvantages of clear braces
2.2.1. High cost
Because it completely overcomes the disadvantages of traditional braces, clear braces are about 2-3 times more expensive. In the current market, depending on the brand and oral condition, clear aligners will have prices ranging from 45 to 140 million VND. However, the benefits and convenience that clear braces bring are completely worth the money that customers need to pay.
2.2.2. Fragile when impacted strongly
Made of plastic material, if the braces are not cleaned and stored properly, they can easily be damaged or broken, interrupting the braces process and causing additional costs.
3. Comparison of clear braces and braces
4. Should I get clear braces or braces?
In fact, whether to use clear braces or braces depends on the following factors:
4.1. Oral health status
Depending on the specific oral health status, the doctor will prescribe different orthodontic methods. Therefore, not everyone can proactively choose an orthodontic method for themselves.
For people with severe malocclusion, doctors often recommend choosing braces with continuous traction to bring the highest orthodontic efficiency. On the contrary, patients with slightly crooked teeth, sparse teeth or narrow jaws can choose clear braces.
4.2. Each person’s needs
Whether to use clear braces or braces depends on the needs and desires of the customer. In cases where the customer needs to stand in front of a crowd often, they can choose clear braces to bring aesthetics and absolute confidence.
On the contrary, if aesthetics are not too important in the process of braces, braces are the optimal choice to help save a lot of costs and time.
Therefore, clear braces or braces depend a lot on the specific oral condition as well as the wishes and needs of the customer. Customers can choose clear braces if they have high aesthetic requirements during the treatment process, otherwise, braces are the optimal choice to help save costs and time while still ensuring high orthodontic efficiency.
